HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-03-05 Kevin Kunz Testimony From: Kevin Kunz
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: Testimony Hawaii Count Genral Plan 2045
Date: Wednesday,March 5,2025 1:58:13 PM
Attachments: WPC General Plan Testimony.K.Kunz 3.5.25.docx
Dear Friends,
Please find attached my testimony related to the proposed Hawaii County General Plan,2045.
Mahalo for the work you do to preserve our unique community,our cultures and our living environment.
Kevin Kunz
19-4071 Wright Road
Volcano Hawaii 96785
808-895-6619
Kevin Kunz
19-4071 Wright Road
Volcano, Hawaii 96785
March 5, 2025
Windward Planning Commission
WPCtestimony@hawaiicounty.gov
Dear Leadership at the Windward Planning Commission,
I am writing in support of the County of Hawaii General Plan 2045, specifically Section 2.0:
Collaborative Biocultural Stewardship.
As a resident of Volcano Village in the Puna District, a committed senior, a volunteer
member of this community, and a Back Country Volunteer at Hawaii Volcanos National
Park, please view me as a serious stakeholder for the ideals and objectives set forth in
Section 2.0. Further, my position reflects that of several dozen of my Puna and Volcano
Village friends. Although they are less likely to comment on the General Plan, I can assure
you that they will support it and work for it as it comes online.
After attention to our families and preservation of our unique Hawaii County community
cultures, the absolute necessity of preserving our distinctive, one and only physical
environment becomes paramount. Indeed, this environment influences who we are, or
may become, and all that we do. For generations to come.
As currently written, Section 2.0 is, in my view, perfect. It covers all bases, and enhances
the opportunities for collaboration by any stakeholders, allowing activation of our citizenry.
Truth be told, participation of the community is an essential and necessary element. I and I
know others as well, do others pledge to support not just this plan, yet also our
commitment to step up when our participation is needed. From pulling invasive plants, to
teaching others the responsibility we all have together to save our environment, to reaching
out to county, state and federal level pullers.
Finally, and emphatically, I wish to comment on Section 2.0,Actions 1.o: Study, develop,
and establish Biosphere Reserve Buffer Zones. With Puna and Volcano Village's
geographically inclusive and/or adjacent location next to Hawaii Volcanos National Park
(HVNP). HVNP is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and we are the buffering community. Let
us step up our game with this General Plan, and preserve all we can in this unique buffer
zone.
Sincerely,
t' &7WAe--
Kevin Kunz